Broadway couple saves historic theater where Joan Rivers last performed
- The West Bank Cafe in Hell's Kitchen was purchased by Tom D'Angora and Michael D'Angora to save it from closure.
- The cafe has faced financial struggles for years, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Renovations will begin soon, with plans for a reopening in January 2025, aiming to preserve the establishment's legacy.
In December 2024, Tom D'Angora and Michael D'Angora, a prominent Broadway couple, purchased the West Bank Cafe, a long-standing establishment in Hell's Kitchen, New York City. The acquisition not only saved the cafe from impending closure but also preserved the Laurie Beechman Theater, a venue that has hosted notable figures such as Joan Rivers and Al Pacino. The cafe, which has a rich history dating back to 1978, faced financial difficulties exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous efforts to save the venue included a successful GoFundMe campaign that raised $350,000 in 2020, followed by another initiative in June 2024 that garnered over $124,000 after owner Steve Olsen announced plans to close due to ongoing struggles. After considering his options, Olsen entrusted the cafe's future to the D'Angoras, who plan to make critical renovations starting December 15, 2024, with a reopening scheduled for January 2025. Their goal is to retain the unique character of the cafe and theater while improving the infrastructure to support a variety of performances, including Broadway productions and cabaret. The D'Angoras expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the local and theater communities throughout the years and are committed to maintaining existing staff and menu offerings.